CM Sukhu urges green hydrogen for Kalka-Shimla train

The Himachal government has urged the Union Ministry of Railways to explore the possibility of running the Kalka-Shimla UNESCO World Heritage train on green hydrogen. In a letter written to the Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the minister to consider transforming this historic rail line into a green energy-powered route. He added, “The state government aims to make Himachal Pradesh a green energy state by March 31, 2026 and has undertaken several initiatives to achieve this goal,” he stated. The CM stated that the state government is working on a six-pronged strategy to transform Himachal into a certified Green Energy State. The state is on track to replace its current thermal power consumption of 1500 Million Units (MUs) with renewable sources. He said that the Himachal government is focussing on solar power generation, with plans to establish a capacity of 2,000 MW over the next four to five years. Solar power generation has doubled in the last two years, reflecting the government's commitment to this clean energy source. Sukhu said the state government is working on a six-pronged strategy to transform Himachal into a certified Green Energy State, contributing significantly to India’s climate commitments and aligning with the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This strategic transition will ensure a fair and just shift towards sustainable energy while also boosting the state’s economy, he stated.

Read more

Saudi Arabian desert sees snowfall for the first time in history

In a remarkable turn of events, some parts of Saudi Arabia are witnessing spells of heavy rain and snowfall for the first time in history. If reports are to go by, the Al-Jawf region experienced heavy snowfall recently, creating a winter wonderland in a country typically known for its arid climate. This unprecedented snowfall follows a series of heavy rains and hail that began sweeping through the area. Residents of Al-Jawf woke up to a stunning landscape transformed by pristine white snow blanketing the mountains. The Saudi Press Agency highlighted that the significant precipitation not only led to snow but also created waterfalls, revitalizing the valleys and infusing the region with life. This winter scene marks a refreshing change as the country transitions into winter, paving the way for the beautiful spring season that Al-Jawf is famous for. During spring, the region bursts into color with seasonal wildflowers, including lavender, chrysanthemum, and a variety of aromatic plants, further enhancing its natural beauty. However, the Saudi weather department has issued warnings for continued severe weather in the coming days. Residents can expect thunderstorms across much of Al-Jawf, with forecasts predicting further heavy rains and hail that could reduce visibility. Strong winds are also expected to accompany these storms, prompting officials to advise caution. Saudi Arabia isn’t the only country experiencing unusual weather patterns. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also been under the influence of similar weather systems. On October 14, the UAE's National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) issued alerts regarding anticipated rainfall, thunderstorms, and the potential for hail in several areas. The weather department in the UAE attributed these changes to low-pressure systems extending from the Arabian Sea toward Oman, affecting weather conditions across the region.

Read more

Minister Ashwini reviews rail development projects during visit to Kozhikode

Thiruvananthapuram: A remark by union railway minister in favour of the Kerala government's much-hyped K-Rail semi-high speed project has further triggered stirs against the same. Union railway minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Sunday that the K-Rail project could be taken forward if the state government clears the technical and environmental issues with regard to the project. The anti-K-Rail action council swiftly resumed their stir across the state against the project demanding that the government should issue formal orders abandoning the project considering its adverse impact on the environment and the lives of thousands of people. The action council also resumed its stir at Kattilapeedika on the suburbs of Kozhikode where the stir against the rail project first started. The opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front also strongly flayed the union railway minister's statement. Opposition leader V D Satheesan said that the UDF would not allow the project at any cost.

Read more

A Glimpse Of The Private Rooms Of Jaipur's City Palace Like Chhavi Niwas

Diljit Dosanjh lit up the stage with his powerful performance at Jaipur on Sunday (November 3). The concert was a part of his Dil-Luminati Tour 2024. Ahead of the special day, the Punjabi singer-actor shared a carousel of pictures from the stunning City Palace on Instagram. Dressed in a suit, Diljit posed against the royal chambers of the palace, bearing intricate decorations on the pillars and walls. The City Palace boasted of splendid welcoming with the backdrop of the royal interiors exuding grandeur and giving a glimpse of some of the famous private rooms of the palace. With its gleaming white marble, complex detailing, kaleidoscopic patterns, antique artwork, and red and pink sandstone, every inch of this palace was simply captivating from the Shobha Niwas to the Rang Mahal. Planning to visit City Palace soon? Then check out these private rooms to see on your next visit. 1. Rang Mandir Rang Mandir is located on the third floor of the Chandra Mahal, the seven-story palace that is the residence of the Jaipur royal family. The room is decorated with mirrorwork on the walls and ceiling that reflects light to every inch with the help of the sunlight. 2. Chhavi Niwas Also known as the "Blue Parlour", this private room is located on the fifth floor of the Chandra Mahal. It offers panoramic views of the palace and is a popular spot for taking pictures owing to its blue and white facade.

Read more

4000-year-old fortified town discovered in Saudi Arabia

As per the latest development, archaeologists have discovered a 4,000-year-old fortified town in northwest Saudi Arabia, known as al-Natah, hidden within the lush, walled Khaybar Oasis in the desert. This discovery offers a glimpse on the ancient shift from nomadic to urban lifestyles. Led by French archaeologist Guillaume Charloux, the team uncovered a 14.5-kilometer wall encircling the settlement. Published in the journal PLOS One, the research estimated that the town was established around 2400 BCE, and the population there might have been up to 500 residents. According to the study, “Preliminary archaeological survey and soundings have revealed a fortified 2.6-hectare town built around 2400-2000 BCE that lasted until at least 1500 BCE and possibly 1300 BCE, though it may have experienced interruptions.” Reports add that the said settlement, dating back over 4,000 years, showcased a unique path to urbanisation, and also offered insights into how early Arabian societies shifted from nomadic herding to organised urban life. Unlike the large urban centres of those regions, al-Natah reflects a process of "slow urbanism," where small, organised communities gradually adapted to desert life.

Read more

Andhra Pradesh’s first seaplane service set for trial run

In a bid to enhance connectivity and boost tourism, Andhra Pradesh is all set to conduct a trial run of its first-ever seaplane service. As per reports, the trial is expected to take place on November 9 or shortly after November 15, officials have confirmed. The seaplane service will be managed by the Andhra Pradesh Airports Development Corporation Limited (APADCL). If reports are to go by, the seaplane, a 10-seater aircraft, will operate on a unique route starting from the Prakasam Barrage in Vijayawada and ending at Srisailam in the Nandyal district. Passengers on this route will fly over the Krishna River, and land near Pathalaganga in Srisailam. The seaplane service is expected to offer pilgrims and tourists a more accessible travel option, and definitely a fun one at that. For those unaware, Srisailam is one of the major pilgrimage destinations in the region. Srisailam is home to an ancient Shiva temple and is set amidst the lush Nallamalla forests. At present, devotees visiting Srisailam from Telangana travel for almost seven hours by road. The difficult terrain adds several challenges for travellers. With the new seaplane service, now travellers will be able to cover the entire distance in approximately 40 minutes! Officials say the service will not only make it easier for pilgrims to reach the temple but will also be an exciting option for tourists interested in seeing the beauty of the surrounding Nallamalla forests and serene river landscapes from the air. The government anticipates that the ease and appeal of this journey will significantly contribute to local tourism.

Read more